American Lung Association of Utah

Radon

What is radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from uranium decay. Radon is only an indoor danger and is often present in homes and buildings. It is difficult to detect because it has no taste, color, or smell.

Why is it a problem?
Next to smoking, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon decays into radioactive particles that stick to the lungs when breathed. The radioactive particles release energy in small bursts, damaging lung tissue.

How to test for radon:
There are two radon tests. The first test is a shorter test that can last from two to 90 days. The second test takes more than 90 days. The EPA suggests using the shorter test first and if the test yields high radon results, following up with the longer test.

For radon testing, low-cost test are available through mail and participating retailers or a certified radon tester can perform the tests.

To learn about testing procedures contact:
Division of Radiation Control, P.O. Box 144850, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-4850,
(801) 536-4250

Radon maps in Utah:
http://geology.utah.gov/utahgeo/hazards/radon.htm